A Witness to Film History
Summary
Sonny Bunch interviews critic Godfrey Cheshire about his new book, "Life and Writings," and his career spanning the alt-weekly era to the digital age. Cheshire discusses the decline of traditional film criticism, the vibrant 1990s indie scene, and his deep engagement with Iranian cinema. He also reflects on the shift from celluloid to digital, the complexities of Southern identity in film, and his documentary about moving a historic North Carolina plantation.
Topics discussed
Remy Martin VSOP Cognac advertisement
Introduction: Sonny Brehm's career and new book
Early career: From Europe to film criticism in NC
Moving to New York and joining the New York Press
The internet's impact on alt-weeklies and criticism
Community engagement with The Bulwark audience
The 1990s indie film scene and New York community
Covering international cinema: China and Iran
Deep dive into Iranian cinema and its spiritual aspects
Political repression and heroism of Iranian filmmakers
The role of the critic as an interpreter
Southern identity and influences on filmmaking
Documentary 'Moving Midway' and plantation history
Essay: The Death of Film and digital transition
Essay: The Decay of Cinema and TV-style serialization
Upcoming book events in New York and Raleigh
Closing thoughts on the critic's purpose
Brie Pasta and Brightview Senior Living ads
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